Norway marked its return to the FIFA World Cup after a 26-year absence with an impressive 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening Group I match on Tuesday, powered by a brace from star striker Erling Haaland.
Playing in Boston, Norway took the lead in the 29th minute when Haaland converted from close range after a well-worked move involving Antonio Nusa and David Moller Wolfe. However, Iraq responded strongly and restored parity 10 minutes later as captain Aymen Hussein rose highest to head home a cross from Amir Al-Ammari.
The Scandinavian side regained control before halftime thanks to a costly defensive mistake by Iraq. Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan hesitated while dealing with a weak backpass, allowing Haaland to intercept and score his second goal of the evening. The strike took the Manchester City forward’s international tally to 57 goals in just 51 appearances.
Despite falling behind again, Iraq continued to threaten. Ibrahim Bayesh, Ali Al-Hamadi and Akam Hashim all came close to finding the net as the Asian side searched for another equaliser.
Norway eventually secured the points in the 76th minute when substitute Leo Ostigard headed in a corner delivered by captain Martin Odegaard. Deep into stoppage time, Norway added a fourth goal after Haaland’s looping header deflected off Hussein and crossed the line as an own goal.
The victory leaves Norway level on three points with France, who defeated Senegal 3-1 earlier in the day, but ahead on goal difference at the top of Group I.
For Iraq, the match marked their first World Cup appearance since 1986 after a gruelling qualification campaign that lasted 867 days and 21 matches. Meanwhile, Norway’s highly anticipated return to the global stage was led by a talented generation featuring Haaland and Martin Odegaard, with coach Stale Solbakken hoping to guide the team beyond previous achievements.
Norway will next face France in New Jersey on 22 June, while Iraq take on Senegal as both teams continue their Group I campaigns.
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